Throughout my four years of high school, I have learned so much and I’m not talking academically. Sure, I gained a lot of school smarts but what I really learned and what will stick with me forever is what I learned about myself.

When you get to senior year you start to realize what is truly important, and the less important things have a way of fading into the background. I wish I could have known what I know now going into my freshman year.

So, in an attempt to save the younger ones from learning the hard way, I have compiled a list of advice for underclassmen.  I wish I had had advice like this for myself going into the doors of H building for the first time.

First and foremost, stay true to yourself. Know where you stand on things and stick to those morals. It’s not worth it to lose yourself along the way.

Choose joy. It is so easy to get caught up in the everyday mundane and boring routine. Every day may not be a good day, but there is good in every day. Sometimes it’s hard to be joyful, but choose it anyway.

Get involved, but don’t overwhelm yourself. I have a problem with this. I did not learn the word “no” until recently – I always had a ready “yes” whenever asked to do something and this caused my to be way in over my head a lot of the time. Pick your favorite things to be involved in, stick to them, and do them to the best of your ability.

Don’t stress. Ha. I am the queen of stress and here I am saying not to. But really, “this too shall pass” and try not to worry. Everything will work out in the end and if it hasn’t worked out, it’s not the end.

Last but definitely not least: love people. Show some love in every action you do and word you say. It’s contagious and this world needs lots more of it.

I’ve learned so many lessons at Tupelo High School, in the classroom and out. This school and these teachers and classmates have shaped me into the person I am today, and for that I am thankful.